Rajshahi, Jan 03 (V7N) — Following the completion of nomination form collection, candidates are now submitting their papers across six parliamentary constituencies in Rajshahi ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election. While political parties and independent candidates are actively participating in the process, enthusiasm remains largely confined to candidates and their supporters, with ordinary voters showing little engagement so far.

According to election officials, six candidates have collected nomination papers from Rajshahi-1 (Tanore–Godagari). The constituency is witnessing a competitive race, primarily between BNP-nominated retired Major General Sharif Uddin and Jamaat-e-Islami nominee and party Nayeb-e-Ameer Mujibur Rahman. Sharif Uddin submitted his nomination papers on Sunday at noon to Rajshahi District Returning Officer Afia Akhtar, accompanied by party leaders and supporters. Speaking to journalists, he said the earlier political instability had subsided and expressed optimism that a free, fair, and festive election would be held on February 12.

However, local residents remain unconvinced. Monusor Rahman, a resident of Rajabari area, said there is hardly any discussion about voting among the general public and that public interest appears low.

In Rajshahi-2 (Sadar), six candidates have also collected nomination papers. BNP nominee and former MP Mizanur Rahman Minu and Jamaat’s new face, Dr. Mohammad Jahangir, are currently the most discussed contenders. Mizanur Rahman Minu is scheduled to submit his nomination papers on Monday.

Similarly, six candidates have collected nomination papers from Rajshahi-3 (Paba–Mohanpur). BNP candidate Shafiqul Haque Milon and Jamaat nominee Abul Kalam Azad are drawing the most attention. Milon is set to submit his nomination on Monday, while Abul Kalam Azad collected his papers last Thursday.

Aslam Uddin, a resident of Parila in Paba, said that while the names of two candidates are frequently mentioned, there is little conversation about whether an election will actually take place, reflecting public uncertainty.

Rajshahi-4 (Bagmara) has seen eight candidates collect nomination papers. Voters anticipate a close contest between BNP and Jamaat candidates, though public enthusiasm remains subdued. BNP has nominated D.M. Ziaur Rahman, while Jamaat has fielded Dr. Abdul Bari Sardar. Azizul Islam of Hamirkutsa said ordinary voters have yet to show meaningful interest in the election.

Rajshahi-5 (Puthia–Durgapur) has recorded the highest number of candidates, with 11 aspirants collecting nomination papers. The constituency has become a focal point of political discussion, particularly due to Jamaat-e-Islami’s last-minute change of candidate. The party replaced its previously announced nominee, district Jamaat Assistant Secretary Muhammad Nuruzzaman Liton, with Puthia Upazila Jamaat Ameer Maulana Manzur Rahman. The move sparked debate on social media, with some users questioning the decision. BNP also faced internal pressure for a candidate change in the constituency, but ultimately retained Professor Nazrul Islam Mondol as its nominee.

In Rajshahi-6 (Charghat–Bagha), seven candidates have collected nomination papers. The main contenders include District BNP Convener Abu Sayeed Chand and Jamaat nominee Principal Nazmul Haque. Despite active discussions among party leaders and activists, local resident Monirul Islam from Nandangachhi said general voters remain largely disengaged, with minimal discussion about the election outside political circles.

Overall, while nomination activities indicate growing competition among political parties, the lack of voter enthusiasm across Rajshahi’s constituencies continues to raise questions about public engagement in the upcoming election.

END/MRA/SMA/